Summary
The project offered cared for people and their carers, a break away from their remote island surroundings to visit mainland Scotland. The trip to Edinburgh created a wonderful opportunity for people to connect with each other without the pressures of regular life -it was a thoroughly enjoyed by all
What Volunteering Hebrides has learned
Dealing with unexpected challenges is always a worry especially when travelling from an island. There were many occassions when staff/volunteers were challenged (one cared for person being stuck in a lift on their own during a power cut, another being a cared for person forgetting 2 days worth of important medication) but as a group who work well together, we were able to solve any problems very quickly. The project gave the organisation another opportunity to build strength in staff and volunteers.
How Volunteering Hebrides has benefitted from the funding
It helped us increase our activity base for the people we support. We provide lots of on-island 1 to 1 support for the participants so it was wonderful to be able to offer them a trip to the mainland as we did, a trip of a lifetime for many of them. The trip offered the opportunity for people to grow in their relationships with each other and also for their relationship with the organisation to strengthen.
Project Outcomes
Outcome
• 2 carers attending the trip will have had a memorable and fun-packed few days which will have taken their mind off tasks and life at home.
• 4 carers staying at home will have had a relaxing break in their own surroundings e.g. having a lie in some days and doing things that they’re not always ab
Results
The outcomes for carers were achieved in full. Carers feedback reflected the need for time to break from the normal caring routine and the project allowed for carers to rest, reconnect with others and enjoy time spent on activities they wouldn't normally have time to participate in.
Case study
One project participant shared his concerns around social engagement with others outwith his regular carer. Living with autism,he really struggles in social situations but at the end of the trip, he was able to explain how much more relaxed he felt with people - even in a large city where he felt he would be more anxious, he felt safe with the volunteers and the staff supporting participants on the trip. This allowed for this man to relax and enjoy the activities and be able to engage with others more effective. He claimed that he never thought he would ever be able to stay in Edinburgh city centre at such a busy time as Christmas and the project allowed him to do this, he was supported to enjoy the "normal" things in life, things he didnt think would be possible for him.
Outcome
6 carers report having a more positive outlook on life, feeling less stressed and/or more energetic.
• 12 cared for people report having increased confidence and self-esteem and feeling more included in their community.
We believe that the opportunity for a mainland break away will impact all of t
Results
Carers were able to participate in the planning of the trip and have a majority input into the activities they thought would benefit them most. The staff and volunteers then booked and organised the trip which took the pressure off the carers. Due to the nature of the trip, carers were able to relax with each other and build peer support and also make new connections with others.